Article

Knee range of motion (ROM) following a knee arthroplasty is an important clinical
outcome that directly relates to the patient's physical function. Smartphone
technology has led to the creation of applications that can measure ROM. The aim
was to determine the concurrent reliability and validity of the photo-based
application 'Dr Goniometer' (DrG) compared with a universal goniometer performed
by a clinician. A smartphone camera was used to take photographs of the knee in
full flexion and full extension,
and the images were sent by participants to a
study phone. Participants then rated the ease of participation. To assess
validity, the patient's knee was measured by a clinician using a goniometer. To
examine reliability, four clinicians assessed each image using DrG on four
separate occasions spaced 1 week apart. A total of 60 images of knee ROM for 30
unicondylar or total knee arthroplasty were assessed. The goniometer and DrG
showed strong correlations for flexion (r=0.94) and extension (r=0.90). DrG
showed good intrarater reliability and excellent inter-rater reliability for
flexion (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.990 and 0.990) and good reliability
for extension (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.897 and 0.899). All
participants found the process easy. DrG was proven to be a valid and reliable
tool in measuring knee ROM following arthroplasty. Smartphone technology, in
conjunction with patient-reported outcomes, offers an accurate and practical way
to remotely monitor patients. Benefit may be found in differentiating those who
need face-to-face clinical consult to those who do not.

Langue : ANGLAIS